Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu praised Prof. Elon Lindenstrauss of the Einstein Institute of Mathematics from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem who received the Fields Medal for 2010 on Thursday.
Netanyahu said that Lindenstrauss brings honor to the people and state of Israel.
"This achievement is very meaningful to yourself personally and to the state of Israel," Netanyahu told Lindenstrauss. "You elevate our value and we are proud of you."
President Shimon Peres on Thursday also praised Lindenstrauss in a telephone conversation with the professor. "I called to bless you from the bottom of my heart," said Peres. "The entire country is proud of you. You brought us pride, hope, and a future - there's no one else like you. The state of Israel must keep its spot at the forefront of worldwide science and technology. Your work and effort, and of those alike, contribute to Israel's status and are worthy of appreciation."
Lindenstrauss thanked the president for his comments.
Minister of Education Gideon Saar also congratulated the professor and said that winning the medal is a source of pride for Israel's higher education and the entire country, Israel Radio reported Thursday.
Saar emphasized that the development of human capital, investment in education and higher education, are the key to scientific and research achievements which will ensure Israel's future.
